Methods and systems for disambiguating user input based on detection of ensembles of items

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods are described for disambiguating user input based on a physical location of items in a vicinity of a user. The system determines that a query received from a user contains an ambiguity. In response, the system identifies several items in the physical vicinity of the user. Then, the system analyzes the identified plurality of items to determine whether the plurality of items forms a first ensemble of items or a second ensemble of items. If the plurality of items forms a first ensemble of items, the system performs a search using the search query and a first keyword related to the first ensemble of items. If the plurality of items forms a second ensemble of items, the system performs a search using the search query and a second keyword related to the second ensemble of items. The system then outputs results of the performed search.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/235,289, filed Dec. 28, 2018, (now allowed), which is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/949,650, filed Apr. 10, 2018, nowU.S. Pat. No. 10,204,160, which are hereby incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Modern computer systems often seek to provide results in response tousers' search queries. For example, Internet search engines commonlyreturn results in response to receiving a user's text query. Inaddition, modern user devices often attempt to perform actions requestedvia a user's voice input. A common problem encountered by such systemsis that the user's search query may contain portions that are ambiguousor unclear. Modern computer systems perform a variety of disambiguationtechniques. For example, user profile data may be used to attemptdisambiguation. However, modern computer systems still lack an abilityto perform disambiguation based on the state of the real-time physicalenvironment of the user. Consequently, such computer search systemsoften deliver search results or perform actions that are inappropriatefor the user's current physical environment. Such inappropriate resultsmay force the user to refine or totally replace the search. In somecases, a user may even give up on the search altogether. Consequently,the inability to account for the state of a physical environment amountsto poor performance in such a computerized search system.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, to overcome these challenges, a media guidance applicationmay use one or more sensors to analyze the physical environment of theuser. For example, the media guidance application may be a part of anInternet of Things (IoT) network and use the IoT protocols to identify aset of items that are located in the physical vicinity of the user. Inanother example, the media guidance application may use any other sensorto identify the set of items. For example, the media guidanceapplication may use a video sensor, infrared (IR) sensor, near fieldcommunication (NFC) sensor, heat sensor, any other sensor or anycombination thereof.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may determine thatthe set of items that are located in the physical vicinity of the userform a certain arrangement or ensemble of items. For example, the mediaguidance application may determine what kind of an outfit the user iswearing, where an outfit may be an ensemble of clothing items. Forexample, the media guidance application may determine that the user iswearing a work outfit (e.g., an ensemble including work pants, dressshoes, and a long-sleeved shirt) or a gym outfit (e.g., an ensembleincluding gym shorts, athletic shoes, and headband).

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may use a keywordassociated with the determined ensemble to disambiguate the search queryreceived from the user. For example, the media guidance application mayadd such a keyword to the search query, select appropriate search tabs,or filter the possible results. For example, the user may input a query“Call John.” The media guidance application may search the user'scontact list and determine that more than one John is present, and thusthat the term “John” is ambiguous. In some embodiments, the mediaguidance application may then identify that that a “work outfit”ensemble of items is present in the vicinity of the user (e.g., the useris wearing a work outfit). The media guidance application may then addthe “work” keyword to the user's query. In this case, “Call John (work)”may return a single result, allowing the media guidance application tocomplete the search and place a call to the correct recipient.

Accordingly, the techniques disclosed herein significantly improveoperations of computerized search systems by allowing such systems toprovide more precise results in response to receiving an ambiguoussearch by leveraging the ability to identify ensembles of items presentin the physical vicinity of the user. In particular, while other systemsmay be return inappropriate results that do not match the environment ofthe user, the presently described system is able to return resultsrelevant to the situation.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may receive a searchquery from the user. For example, the media guidance application mayreceive a query “Call John,” via text input or via voice input. In someembodiments, the media guidance application may then determine that thesearch query contains an ambiguity. For example, the media guidanceapplication may determine that the user's contact list includes morethan John (e.g., a coworker John Boss and gym partner John Racquet).

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may perform severalactions in response to determining that the search query contains anambiguity. In some embodiments, the media guidance application mayidentify, using at least one sensor, a plurality of items in thephysical vicinity of the user. For example, the media guidanceapplication may identify all articles of clothing worn by the user usingIoT identification. In another example, each article of clothing mayinclude an RFID tag which may be read by the media guidance applicationto identify each article of clothing.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may determine thatthe plurality of items forms a first ensemble of items (e.g., a businessoutfit). In this case, the media guidance application may perform asearch using the search query and a first keyword related to the firstensemble of items. For example, the media guidance application mayperform a search using terms “Call John” and “work.” In someembodiments, this search may return a single result “John Boss.”

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may determine thatthe plurality of items forms a second ensemble of items (e.g., a gymoutfit). In this case, the media guidance application may perform asearch using the search query and a second keyword related to the secondensemble of items. For example, the media guidance application mayperform a search using terms “Call John” and “gym.” In some embodiments,this search may return the result “John Racquet.”

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may output a resultof the performed search. For example, the result may be displayed on ascreen or reproduced as sound. In some embodiments, an action may betaken by the media guidance application based on the search query. Forexample, the media guidance application may output a line “Calling JohnBoss” or “Calling John Racquet.” In some embodiments, the media guidanceapplication may also place the call to John Boss or to John Racquet.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may access a list ofensemble templates, each ensemble template identifying a plurality ofphysical items and a descriptive keyword. In some embodiments, the listof ensemble templates may be stored in a local storage or accessed froma remote server. For example, one template may include keywords “WorkOutfit” and identify a plurality of clothing items including, forexample, “a long-sleeved shirt,” a “tie,” and “dress shoes.” Anothertemplate may include keywords “Gym Outfit” and identify a plurality ofclothing items including for example, “tank top,” “athletic shoes,” and“headband.”

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may receive a searchquery from the user. For example, the media guidance application mayreceive text or voice input from the user via a user interface. Forexample, the media guidance application may receive a query “Call John,”via text input or via voice input.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may determine thatthe search query received from the user comprises a portion withmultiple possible meanings. For example, the media guidance applicationmay perform linguistic analysis on every word or combination of words inthe search query to determine if the word or combination of words hasmultiple meanings. In some embodiments, every word or combination ofwords may be matched against a set of possible results, and if more thanone possible result is returned, the media guidance application maydetermine that the search query received from the user comprises aportion with multiple possible meanings.

For example, if the search query is “Call John,” the media guidanceapplication may determine that the set of possible results is theentries from the user's contact list. In some embodiments, the mediaguidance application may then match “John” against every entry in thecontact list. In one example, the media guidance application maydetermine that the user's contact list has two entries that match theword “John”: “John Boss” (the user's coworker) and “John Racquet” (theuser's gym partner). In this case, since more than one possible resultis returned, the media guidance application may determine that the term“John” has multiple possible meanings.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may perform asseries of steps in response to determining that the search querycomprises the portion with multiple possible meanings. In someembodiments, the media guidance application may detect, using a sensor,a set of items in a physical vicinity of the user. For example, themedia guidance application may use an RFID reader to create set of itemsthat would include all articles of clothing worn by a user. In someembodiments, each article of clothing worn by a user may include an RFIDtag that can be scanned by the RFID reader to identify that article ofclothing, and cause the media guidance application to add that articleof clothing to the set of items in a physical vicinity of the user.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may detect the setof items in the physical vicinity of the user by performing a series ofsteps described below. In some embodiments, the media guidanceapplication may identify a first item and a second item (e.g., by usinga sensor). In some embodiments, the media guidance application may thencalculate a distance between the first item (e.g., a tie) and the seconditem (e.g., a shirt). For example, the distance may be determined to be1 meter. In some embodiments, the media guidance application maydetermine whether the distance corresponds to (e.g., is below) avicinity threshold (e.g., 2 meters). In some embodiments, in response todetermining that the distance corresponds to the vicinity threshold(e.g., it's under the threshold), the media guidance application may addthe first item and the second item to the set of items. For example,since 1 meter is below the threshold of 2 meters, the tie and shirt maybe added to the set of items. In some embodiments, this is done becauseitems being located near each other presents a strong likelihood of theitems forming an ensemble of items (e.g., an outfit).

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may determinewhether the set of items matches a plurality of physical itemsidentified by the first ensemble template of the list of ensembletemplates. For example, the first template may include keywords “WorkOutfit” and identify a plurality of clothing items, including forexample, “a long-sleeved shirt,” a “tie,” and “dress shoes.” In thisexample, the set of items may include a dress shirt and black leathershoes worn by the user. In this example, since the dress shirt of theset matches “long-sleeved shirt” of the first template and since blackleather shoes match the “dress shoes” of the first template, the mediaguidance application may determine that the set of items matches aplurality of physical items identified by the first ensemble template.

In some embodiments, in response to determining that there is a match,the media guidance application may add a descriptive keyword identifiedby the first ensemble template to the search query received from theuser to generate a modified search query. For example, the mediaguidance application may add the keyword “work” identified by the firsttemplate to the search query Call John,” resulting a modified searchquery “Call John (work).” In some embodiments, the media guidanceapplication may then perform a search based on the modified searchquery. For example, the media guidance application may search the user'scontact list for people named “John” and associated with the user'swork. In some embodiments, the media guidance application may thengenerate for display the results of the performed search. For example,the media guidance application may display the words “Calling John Boss”on the screen of the user's device. In another example, the mediaguidance application may generate an audio output “Calling John Boss.”In some embodiments, the media guidance application may also call JohnBoss.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may further modifythe search query. For example, the media guidance application maydetermine whether the set of items matches a plurality of physical itemsidentified by a second ensemble template of the list of ensembletemplates. For example, the set of items in the vicinity of the user mayinclude a gym outfit, including sneakers and a tank top. In someembodiments, the media guidance application may determine that thismatches a second plurality of physical items identified by a secondensemble template which identifies keyword “gym outfit” and identifies aplurality of items including “athletic shoes,” “sports top,” “sportsshorts.” For example, the media guidance application may add the keyword“gym” identified by the first template to the search query “Call John,”resulting in a modified search query “Call John, gym.”

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may determinewhether the set of items matches the plurality of physical itemsidentified by the first ensemble template by performing series of stepsdescribed below. In some embodiments, the media guidance application maycalculate the number of items of the set of items that match at leastone item of the plurality of physical items identified by the firstensemble template. For example, the media guidance application maydetermine that three items of the set of items match the plurality ofphysical items identified by the first ensemble template (e.g., theshoes, the shirt, and the pants). In some embodiments, the mediaguidance application may determine that the number exceeds a matchthreshold (e.g., 2 items). In some embodiments, the media guidanceapplication may then determine that the set of items matches theplurality of physical items of the first ensemble template.

In some embodiments, the set of items comprises a first plurality ofclothing items worn by the user. In some embodiments, the media guidanceapplication may, in response to determining that the set of itemsmatches the plurality of physical items identified by the first ensembletemplate of the list of ensemble templates, add a dress code keyword tothe search query received from the user to generate the modified searchquery. For example, the media guidance application may modify the searchby adding terms such as “work,” “gym,” “black tie,” or any other attirekeyword.

In some embodiments, the set of items comprises a first plurality offurniture items. In some embodiments, the media guidance application maythen add a furniture arrangement keyword to the search query receivedfrom the user to generate the modified search query. In someembodiments, the media guidance application may then, in response todetermining that the set of items matches the plurality of physicalitems identified by the first ensemble template of the list of ensembletemplates, add a furniture arrangement keyword to the search queryreceived from the user to generate the modified search query. Forexample, the media guidance application may modify the search by addingterms such as “party,” “dinner,” “relaxation”, etc. For example, themedia guidance application may differentiate between furniture arrangedfor a party and furniture arranged for relaxation.

In some embodiments, the set of items comprises a first plurality offood items. In some embodiments, the media guidance application may thenadd a recipe keyword to the search query received from the user togenerate the modified search query. In some embodiments, the mediaguidance application may then, in response to determining that the setof items matches the plurality of physical items identified by the firstensemble template of the list of ensemble templates, add a recipekeyword to the search query received from the user to generate themodified search query. For example, the media guidance application maymodify the search by adding terms such as “pizza,” “omelet,” “bread,”etc. For example, the media guidance application may differentiatebetween different food items arranged in the physical vicinity of theuser.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The below and other objects and advantages of the disclosure will beapparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, takenin conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like referencecharacters refer to like parts throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1A shows an illustrative block diagram of a system for respondingto user's queries, in accordance with some embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 1B shows another illustrative block diagram of a system forresponding to user's queries, in accordance with some embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 2 shows an illustrative media guidance interface that maydynamically include or exclude a video, in accordance with someembodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 3 shows another illustrative media guidance interface that maydynamically include or exclude a video, in accordance with someembodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an illustrative user equipment device, inaccordance with some embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an illustrative media system in accordancewith some embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 shows yet another illustrative media guidance interface that maydynamically include or exclude a video, in accordance with someembodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 7 depicts an illustrative flow diagram for a process ofdisambiguating user input, in accordance with some embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 8 depicts another illustrative flow diagram for a process ofdisambiguating user input, in accordance with some embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 9 depicts yet another illustrative flow diagram for a process ofdisambiguating user input, in accordance with some embodiments of thedisclosure;

FIG. 10 depicts a flow diagram for a process of identifying a set ofitems, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 11 depicts an illustrative flow diagram for a process ofdetermining a match between a set of items and items of an ensembletemplate, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure; and

FIG. 12 depicts an illustrative flow diagram for a process of modifyingthe search query, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may receive userqueries or input (e.g. via text or via voice input). The media guidanceapplication may then determine that the input has an ambiguous portionthat prevents a single interpretation. In response, the media guidanceapplication may use one or more sensors to identify a set of items inthe physical vicinity of the user.

Further, the media guidance application may determine that the set ofitems matches a particular ensemble of items (e.g., an outfit, furnitureconfiguration, etc.). Then, the media guidance application may modifythe input (e.g., by adding a keyword associated with the matchingensemble of items.) Then, the media guidance application may return anoutput or perform an action based on the modified input. In this way,the media guidance application significantly improves a capability of acomputerized search system (e.g., a digital personal assistant) to reactto ambiguous input. Where previous systems would be unable to provide anoutput without additional user input, the media guidance application mayleverage information about ensemble of items being present in thevicinity of the user to disambiguate the user's input and provide anappropriate response.

As referred to herein, any of the terms “ensemble of items” or “itemensemble” or “ensemble” may refers to any kind of a set or arrangementof items which are located near each other in a physical space and arerelated to each other. For example, an ensemble may be several articlesof clothing intended to be worn together. In another example, anensemble may be a several pieces of furniture arranged for a particularpurpose (e.g., for a party). In another example, an ensemble may be aseveral food items intended to be used as a part of the same recipe.

As referred to herein, the term “ensemble template” may refer to anykind of table, database, or any other data structure that identifies aplurality of items typical of a certain ensemble of items. In someembodiments, the ensemble template may also include one or more keywordsassociated with that ensemble of items. For example, an ensembletemplate may identify articles of clothing which are typical of abusiness outfit (e.g., tie, dress shoes, belt, etc.). In someembodiments, such an ensemble template may identify keywords such as“work,” “business,” etc.

The amount of content available to users in any given content deliverysystem can be substantial. Consequently, many users desire a form ofmedia guidance through an interface that allows users to efficientlynavigate content selections and easily identify content that they maydesire. An application that provides such guidance is referred to hereinas an interactive media guidance application or, sometimes, a mediaguidance application or a guidance application. In some embodiments, theinteractive media guidance application may include an off-chain oracle.In some embodiments, the off-chain oracle may be used by any deviceaccessing the blockchain to access data related to the blockchain butstored separately from the blockchain.

Interactive media guidance applications may take various forms dependingon the content for which they provide guidance. One typical type ofmedia guidance application is an interactive television program guide.Interactive television program guides (sometimes referred to aselectronic program guides) are well-known guidance applications that,among other things, allow users to navigate among and locate many typesof content or media assets. Interactive media guidance applications maygenerate graphical user interface screens that enable a user to navigateamong, locate and select content. As referred to herein, the terms“media asset” and “content” should be understood to mean anelectronically consumable user asset, such as television programming, aswell as pay-per-view programs, on-demand programs (as in video-on-demand(VOD) systems), Internet content (e.g., streaming content, downloadablecontent, Webcasts, etc.), video clips, audio, content information,pictures, rotating images, documents, playlists, websites, articles,books, electronic books, blogs, chat sessions, social media,applications, games, and/or any other media or multimedia and/orcombination of the same. Guidance applications also allow users tonavigate among and locate content. As referred to herein, the term“multimedia” should be understood to mean content that utilizes at leasttwo different content forms described above, for example, text, audio,images, video, or interactivity content forms. Content may be recorded,played, displayed or accessed by user equipment devices, but can also bepart of a live performance.

The media guidance application and/or any instructions for performingany of the embodiments discussed herein may be encoded oncomputer-readable media. Computer-readable media includes any mediacapable of storing data. The computer-readable media may be transitory,including, but not limited to, propagating electrical or electromagneticsignals, or may be non-transitory including, but not limited to,volatile and non-volatile computer memory or storage devices such as ahard disk, floppy disk, USB drive, DVD, CD, media cards, registermemory, processor caches, Random Access Memory (“RAM”), etc.

With the advent of the Internet, mobile computing, and high-speedwireless networks, users are accessing media on user equipment deviceson which they traditionally did not. As referred to herein, the phrase“user equipment device,” “user equipment,” “user device,” “electronicdevice,” “electronic equipment,” “media equipment device,” or “mediadevice” should be understood to mean any device for accessing thecontent described above, such as a television, a Smart TV, a set-topbox, an integrated receiver decoder (IRD) for handling satellitetelevision, a digital storage device, a digital media receiver (DMR), adigital media adapter (DMA), a streaming media device, a DVD player, aDVD recorder, a connected DVD, a local media server, a BLU-RAY player, aBLU-RAY recorder, a personal computer (PC), a laptop computer, a tabletcomputer, a WebTV box, a personal computer television (PC/TV), a PCmedia server, a PC media center, a hand-held computer, a stationarytelephone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile telephone, aportable video player, a portable music player, a portable gamingmachine, a smart phone, or any other television equipment, computingequipment, or wireless device, and/or combination of the same. In someembodiments, the user equipment device may have a front facing screenand a rear facing screen, multiple front screens, or multiple angledscreens. In some embodiments, the user equipment device may have a frontfacing camera and/or a rear facing camera. On these user equipmentdevices, users may be able to navigate among and locate the same contentavailable through a television. Consequently, media guidance may beavailable on these devices, as well. The guidance provided may be forcontent available only through a television, for content available onlythrough one or more of other types of user equipment devices, or forcontent available both through a television and one or more of the othertypes of user equipment devices. The media guidance applications may beprovided as on-line applications (i.e., provided on a web-site), or asstand-alone applications or clients on user equipment devices. Variousdevices and platforms that may implement media guidance applications aredescribed in more detail below.

One of the functions of the media guidance application is to providemedia guidance data to users. As referred to herein, the phrase “mediaguidance data” or “guidance data” should be understood to mean any datarelated to content or data used in operating the guidance application.For example, the guidance data may include program information, guidanceapplication settings, user preferences, user profile information, medialistings, media-related information (e.g., broadcast times, broadcastchannels, titles, descriptions, ratings information (e.g., parentalcontrol ratings, critic's ratings, etc.), genre or category information,actor information, logo data for broadcasters' or providers' logos,etc.), media format (e.g., standard definition, high definition, 3D,etc.), on-demand information, blogs, websites, and any other type ofguidance data that is helpful for a user to navigate among and locatedesired content selections.

FIG. 1A shows an illustrative block diagram of a system 100 forresponding to user's queries, in accordance with various embodiments ofthe disclosure. In some embodiments, the system may include user device104 and, optionally, a sensor array 102. In some embodiments, sensorarray 102 may be fully or partially built into device 104. In someembodiments, user device 104 may be located in a physical vicinity ofuser 110. In some embodiments, the user may be dressed in a businesssuit, which includes jacket 111, tie 112, belt 113, dress pants 114, anddress shoes 116.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may receive an inputfrom user 110. For example, user 110 may provide an input via userdevice 104 via text or voice input. In some embodiments, the input maycomprise a search query. For example, user 110 may provide an input“Call John.”

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may determine thatthe search query received from the user comprises a portion withmultiple possible meanings. For example, the media guidance applicationmay determine that user 110 has two Johns in his contact list (e.g., acoworker John Boss and a gym partner John Racquet).

In some embodiments, in response to detecting an ambiguity, the mediaguidance application may detect, e.g., using sensor array 102, a set ofitems in a physical vicinity of the user. In some embodiments, the mediaguidance application may determine the set of items using IoT protocols.For example, each item 111-116 may be an IoT-enabled item that canidentity itself over a network. In some embodiments, each item 111-116may have an RFID tag that, when scanned, may be able to provideidentifying information to user device 104. In some embodiments, themedia guidance application may use sensor array 102 to identify items111-116. For example, sensor array 102 may use a video camera toidentify items 111-116 using video processing algorithms. In someembodiments, sensor array 102 may use a video sensor, an IR sensor, anNFC sensor, a heat sensor, any other sensor or any combination thereofto identify items 111-116.

In some embodiments, once the set of items is identified, the mediaguidance application may determine whether the set of items matches aplurality of physical items identified by a first ensemble template. Forexample, the media guidance application may access the first ensembletemplate represented by Table 1:

TABLE 1 Attribute Value Keyword 1 Business Keyword 2 Work Keyword 3Outfit Item 1 Long-sleeved Shirt Item 2 Long Pants Item 3 Dress ShoesItem 4 Tie Item 5 Belt Item 6 Suspenders Item 7 Jacket Item 8 CufflinksItem 9 Vest

In some embodiments, the first ensemble template may identify keywords,such as “Business” and “Work,” and identify a plurality of items (e.g.,“Tie,” “Long-sleeved Shirt”). In some embodiments, the media guidanceapplication may determine that the set of items in the vicinity of theuser matches the threshold number of items (e.g., three items)identified by the first ensemble template. For example, shoes 116 maymatch item 3 of Table 1, jacket 111 may match item 7 of Table 1, andbelt 113 may match item 5 of Table 1.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may then add atleast one keyword identified by the first template to the user's input.For example, the media guidance application may add keyword 2 of Table 1(i.e., the keyword “work”) to the user's input to create a modifieduser's input “Call John, work.”

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may then perform asearch based on the modified search query and generate for displayresults of the performed search. For example, the result may bedisplayed on a screen of user device 104. For example, user device 104may display text “Calling John Boss.”

FIG. 1B shows another illustrative block diagram of a system 100 forresponding to user's queries, in accordance with various embodiments ofthe disclosure. In some embodiments, the system may include user device104 and sensor array 102. In some embodiments, sensor array 102 may befully or partially built into device 104. In some embodiments, userdevice 104 may be located in a physical vicinity of user 120. In someembodiments, the user 120 may be the same person as user 110. In someembodiments, the user may be dressed in gym outfit, which includes tanktop 121, shorts 122, and sneakers 123.

In some embodiments, user 120 may also provide an input “Call John.” Inthis example, the media guidance application may similarly determinethat user 110 has two Johns in his contact list (e.g., a coworker JohnBoss and a gym partner John Racquet). In some embodiments, in responseto detecting an ambiguity, the media guidance application may detect,e.g., using sensor array 102, a set of items (e.g., items 121-123) in aphysical vicinity of the user.

In some embodiments, once the set of items is identified, the mediaguidance application may determine whether the set of items matches aplurality of physical items identified by a second ensemble template.For example, the media guidance application may access the secondensemble template represented by Table 2:

TABLE 2 Attribute Value Keyword 1 Gym Keyword 2 Sports Keyword 3 OutfitItem 1 Athletic Shoes Item 2 Shorts Item 3 Sweat Pants Item 4 HeadbandItem 5 Water Bottle Item 6 Sports Bra Item 7 Athletic Top

In some embodiments, the first ensemble template may identify keywords,such as “Gym” and “Sports,” and identify a plurality of items (e.g.,“Athletic Shoes,” “Headband”). In some embodiments, the media guidanceapplication may determine that the set of items in the vicinity of theuser matches the threshold number of items (e.g., three items)identified by the first ensemble template. For example, tank top 121 maymatch item 7 of Table 2, shorts 122 may match item 2 of Table 2, andsneakers 123 may match item 1 of Table 2.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may then add atleast one keyword identified by the second template to the user's input.For example, the media guidance application may add keyword 1 of Table 2(i.e., the keyword “gym”) to the user's input to create a modifieduser's input “Call John gym.”

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may then perform asearch based on the modified search query and generating for display theresults of the performed search. For example, the result may bedisplayed on a screen of user device 104. For example, user device 104may display text “Calling John Racquet.”

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may receive a searchquery “What am I forgetting?” In this case, the media guidanceapplication may identify a set of items worn by the user (e.g., shorts,tank top and shoes). Then, the media guidance application may determinethat the second ensemble template matches the set of items worn by theuser, but contains additional items (e.g., headband) not worn by theuser. In this example, the media guidance application may output theterm “headband” as an answer to the query “What am I forgetting?”

FIGS. 2-3 show illustrative display screens that may be used to providemedia guidance data. The display screens shown in FIGS. 2-3 may beimplemented on any suitable user equipment device or platform. While thedisplays of FIGS. 2-3 are illustrated as full screen displays, they mayalso be fully or partially overlaid over content being displayed. A usermay indicate a desire to access content information by selecting aselectable option provided in a display screen (e.g., a menu option, alistings option, an icon, a hyperlink, etc.) or pressing a dedicatedbutton (e.g., a GUIDE button) on a remote control or other user inputinterface or device. In response to the user's indication, the mediaguidance application may provide a display screen with media guidancedata organized in one of several ways, such as by time and channel in agrid, by time, by channel, by source, by content type, by category(e.g., movies, sports, news, children, or other categories ofprogramming), or other predefined, user-defined, or other organizationcriteria.

FIG. 2 shows illustrative grid of a program listings display 200arranged by time and channel that also enables access to different typesof content in a single display. Display 200 may include grid 202 with:(1) a column of channel/content type identifiers 204, where eachchannel/content type identifier (which is a cell in the column)identifies a different channel or content type available; and (2) a rowof time identifiers 206, where each time identifier (which is a cell inthe row) identifies a time block of programming. Grid 202 also includescells of program listings, such as program listing 208, where eachlisting provides the title of the program provided on the listing'sassociated channel and time. With a user input device, a user can selectprogram listings by moving highlight region 210. Information relating tothe program listing selected by highlight region 210 may be provided inprogram information region 212. Region 212 may include, for example, theprogram title, the program description, the time the program is provided(if applicable), the channel the program is on (if applicable), theprogram's rating, and other desired information.

In addition to providing access to linear programming (e.g., contentthat is scheduled to be transmitted to a plurality of user equipmentdevices at a predetermined time and is provided according to aschedule), the media guidance application also provides access tonon-linear programming (e.g., content accessible to a user equipmentdevice at any time and is not provided according to a schedule).Non-linear programming may include content from different contentsources including on-demand content (e.g., VOD), Internet content (e.g.,streaming media, downloadable media, etc.), locally stored content(e.g., content stored on any user equipment device described above orother storage device), or other time-independent content. On-demandcontent may include movies or any other content provided by a particularcontent provider (e.g., HBO On Demand providing “The Sopranos” and “CurbYour Enthusiasm”). HBO ON DEMAND is a service mark owned by Time WarnerCompany L.P. et al. and THE SOPRANOS and CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM aretrademarks owned by the Home Box Office, Inc. Internet content mayinclude web events, such as a chat session or Webcast, or contentavailable on-demand as streaming content or downloadable content throughan Internet web site or other Internet access (e.g. FTP).

Grid 202 may provide media guidance data for non-linear programmingincluding on-demand listing 214, recorded content listing 216, andInternet content listing 218. A display combining media guidance datafor content from different types of content sources is sometimesreferred to as a “mixed-media” display. Various permutations of thetypes of media guidance data that may be displayed that are differentthan display 200 may be based on user selection or guidance applicationdefinition (e.g., a display of only recorded and broadcast listings,only on-demand and broadcast listings, etc.). As illustrated, listings214, 216, and 218 are shown as spanning the entire time block displayedin grid 202 to indicate that selection of these listings may provideaccess to a display dedicated to on-demand listings, recorded listings,or Internet listings, respectively. In some embodiments, listings forthese content types may be included directly in grid 202. Additionalmedia guidance data may be displayed in response to the user selectingone of the navigational icons 220. (Pressing an arrow key on a userinput device may affect the display in a similar manner as selectingnavigational icons 220.)

Display 200 may also include video region 222, and options region 226.Video region 222 may allow the user to view and/or preview programs thatare currently available, will be available, or were available to theuser. The content of video region 222 may correspond to, or beindependent from, one of the listings displayed in grid 202. Griddisplays including a video region are sometimes referred to aspicture-in-guide (PIG) displays. PIG displays and their functionalitiesare described in greater detail in Satterfield et al. U.S. Pat. No.6,564,378, issued May 13, 2003 and Yuen et al. U.S. Pat. No. 6,239,794,issued May 29, 2001, which are hereby incorporated by reference hereinin their entireties. PIG displays may be included in other mediaguidance application display screens of the embodiments describedherein.

Options region 226 may allow the user to access different types ofcontent, media guidance application displays, and/or media guidanceapplication features. Options region 226 may be part of display 200 (andother display screens described herein), or may be invoked by a user byselecting an on-screen option or pressing a dedicated or assignablebutton on a user input device. The selectable options within optionsregion 226 may concern features related to program listings in grid 202or may include options available from a main menu display. Featuresrelated to program listings may include searching for other air times orways of receiving a program, recording a program, enabling seriesrecording of a program, setting program and/or channel as a favorite,purchasing a program, or other features. Options available from a mainmenu display may include search options, VOD options, parental controloptions, Internet options, cloud-based options, device synchronizationoptions, second screen device options, options to access various typesof media guidance data displays, options to subscribe to a premiumservice, options to edit a user's profile, options to access a browseoverlay, or other options.

The media guidance application may be personalized based on a user'spreferences. A personalized media guidance application allows a user tocustomize displays and features to create a personalized “experience”with the media guidance application. This personalized experience may becreated by allowing a user to input these customizations and/or by themedia guidance application monitoring user activity to determine varioususer preferences. Users may access their personalized guidanceapplication by logging in or otherwise identifying themselves to theguidance application. Customization of the media guidance applicationmay be made in accordance with a user profile. The customizations mayinclude varying presentation schemes (e.g., color scheme of displays,font size of text, etc.), aspects of content listings displayed (e.g.,only HDTV or only 3D programming, user-specified broadcast channelsbased on favorite channel selections, re-ordering the display ofchannels, recommended content, etc.), desired recording features (e.g.,recording or series recordings for particular users, recording quality,etc.), parental control settings, customized presentation of Internetcontent (e.g., presentation of social media content, e-mail,electronically delivered articles, etc.) and other desiredcustomizations.

The media guidance application may allow a user to provide user profileinformation or may automatically compile user profile information. Themedia guidance application may, for example, monitor the content theuser accesses and/or other interactions the user may have with theguidance application. Additionally, the media guidance application mayobtain all or part of other user profiles that are related to aparticular user (e.g., from other web sites on the Internet the useraccesses, such as www.Tivo.com, from other media guidance applicationsthe user accesses, from other interactive applications the useraccesses, from another user equipment device of the user, etc.), and/orobtain information about the user from other sources that the mediaguidance application may access. As a result, a user can be providedwith a unified guidance application experience across the user'sdifferent user equipment devices. This type of user experience isdescribed in greater detail below in connection with FIG. 5. Additionalpersonalized media guidance application features are described ingreater detail in Ellis et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2005/0251827, filed Jul. 11, 2005, Boyer et al., U.S. Pat. No.7,165,098, issued Jan. 16, 2007, and Ellis et al., U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2002/0174430, filed Feb. 21, 2002, which arehereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

Another display arrangement for providing media guidance is shown inFIG. 3. Video mosaic display 300 includes selectable options 302 forcontent information organized based on content type, genre, and/or otherorganization criteria. In display 300, television listings option 304 isselected, thus providing listings 306, 308, 310, and 312 as broadcastprogram listings. In display 300 the listings may provide graphicalimages including cover art, still images from the content, video clippreviews, live video from the content, or other types of content thatindicate to a user the content being described by the media guidancedata in the listing. Each of the graphical listings may also beaccompanied by text to provide further information about the contentassociated with the listing. For example, listing 308 may include morethan one portion, including media portion 314 and text portion 316.Media portion 314 and/or text portion 316 may be selectable to viewcontent in full-screen or to view information related to the contentdisplayed in media portion 314 (e.g., to view listings for the channelthat the video is displayed on).

The listings in display 300 are of different sizes (i.e., listing 306 islarger than listings 308, 310, and 312), but if desired, all thelistings may be the same size. Listings may be of different sizes orgraphically accentuated to indicate degrees of interest to the user orto emphasize certain content, as desired by the content provider orbased on user preferences. Various systems and methods for graphicallyaccentuating content listings are discussed in, for example, Yates, U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0153885, filed Nov. 12, 2009,which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Users may access content and the media guidance application (and itsdisplay screens described above and below) from one or more of theiruser equipment devices. FIG. 4 shows a generalized embodiment ofillustrative user equipment device 400. More specific implementations ofuser equipment devices are discussed below in connection with FIG. 5.User equipment device 400 may receive content and data via input/output(hereinafter “I/O”) path 402. I/O path 402 may provide content (e.g.,broadcast programming, on-demand programming, Internet content, contentavailable over a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN),and/or other content) and data to control circuitry 404, which includesprocessing circuitry 406 and storage 408. Control circuitry 404 may beused to send and receive commands, requests, and other suitable datausing I/O path 402. I/O path 402 may connect control circuitry 404 (andspecifically processing circuitry 406) to one or more communicationspaths (described below). I/O functions may be provided by one or more ofthese communications paths, but are shown as a single path in FIG. 4 toavoid overcomplicating the drawing.

Control circuitry 404 may be based on any suitable processing circuitrysuch as processing circuitry 406. As referred to herein, processingcircuitry should be understood to mean circuitry based on one or moremicroprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors,programmable logic devices, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs),application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc., and may includea multi-core processor (e.g., dual-core, quad-core, hexa-core, or anysuitable number of cores) or supercomputer. In some embodiments,processing circuitry may be distributed across multiple separateprocessors or processing units, for example, multiple of the same typeof processing units (e.g., two Intel Core i7 processors) or multipledifferent processors (e.g., an Intel Core i5 processor and an Intel Corei7 processor). In some embodiments, control circuitry 404 executesinstructions for a media guidance application stored in memory (i.e.,storage 408). Specifically, control circuitry 404 may be instructed bythe media guidance application to perform the functions discussed aboveand below. For example, the media guidance application may provideinstructions to control circuitry 404 to generate the media guidancedisplays. In some implementations, any action performed by controlcircuitry 404 may be based on instructions received from the mediaguidance application.

In client-server based embodiments, control circuitry 404 may includecommunications circuitry suitable for communicating with a guidanceapplication server or other networks or servers. The instructions forcarrying out the above mentioned functionality may be stored on theguidance application server. Communications circuitry may include acable modem, an integrated services digital network (ISDN) modem, adigital subscriber line (DSL) modem, a telephone modem, Ethernet card,or a wireless modem for communications with other equipment, or anyother suitable communications circuitry. Such communications may involvethe Internet or any other suitable communications networks or paths(which is described in more detail in connection with FIG. 5). Inaddition, communications circuitry may include circuitry that enablespeer-to-peer communication of user equipment devices, or communicationof user equipment devices in locations remote from each other (describedin more detail below).

Memory may be an electronic storage device provided as storage 408 thatis part of control circuitry 404. As referred to herein, the phrase“electronic storage device” or “storage device” should be understood tomean any device for storing electronic data, computer software, orfirmware, such as random-access memory, read-only memory, hard drives,optical drives, digital video disc (DVD) recorders, compact disc (CD)recorders, BLU-RAY disc (BD) recorders, BLU-RAY 3D disc recorders,digital video recorders (DVR, sometimes called a personal videorecorder, or PVR), solid state devices, quantum storage devices, gamingconsoles, gaming media, or any other suitable fixed or removable storagedevices, and/or any combination of the same. Storage 408 may be used tostore various types of content described herein as well as mediaguidance data described above. Nonvolatile memory may also be used(e.g., to launch a boot-up routine and other instructions). Cloud-basedstorage, described in relation to FIG. 5, may be used to supplementstorage 408 or instead of storage 408.

Control circuitry 404 may include video generating circuitry and tuningcircuitry, such as one or more analog tuners, one or more MPEG-2decoders or other digital decoding circuitry, high-definition tuners, orany other suitable tuning or video circuits or combinations of suchcircuits. Encoding circuitry (e.g., for converting over-the-air, analog,or digital signals to MPEG signals for storage) may also be provided.Control circuitry 404 may also include scaler circuitry for upconvertingand downconverting content into the preferred output format of the userequipment 400. Circuitry 404 may also include digital-to-analogconverter circuitry and analog-to-digital converter circuitry forconverting between digital and analog signals. The tuning and encodingcircuitry may be used by the user equipment device to receive and todisplay, to play, or to record content. The tuning and encodingcircuitry may also be used to receive guidance data. The circuitrydescribed herein, including for example, the tuning, video generating,encoding, decoding, encrypting, decrypting, scaler, and analog/digitalcircuitry, may be implemented using software running on one or moregeneral purpose or specialized processors. Multiple tuners may beprovided to handle simultaneous tuning functions (e.g., watch and recordfunctions, picture-in-picture (PIP) functions, multiple-tuner recording,etc.). If storage 408 is provided as a separate device from userequipment 400, the tuning and encoding circuitry (including multipletuners) may be associated with storage 408.

A user may send instructions to control circuitry 404 using user inputinterface 410. User input interface 410 may be any suitable userinterface, such as a remote control, mouse, trackball, keypad, keyboard,touch screen, touchpad, stylus input, joystick, voice recognitioninterface, or other user input interfaces. Display 412 may be providedas a stand-alone device or integrated with other elements of userequipment device 400. For example, display 412 may be a touchscreen ortouch-sensitive display. In such circumstances, user input interface 410may be integrated with or combined with display 412. Display 412 may beone or more of a monitor, a television, a liquid crystal display (LCD)for a mobile device, amorphous silicon display, low temperature polysilicon display, electronic ink display, electrophoretic display, activematrix display, electro-wetting display, electrofluidic display, cathoderay tube display, light-emitting diode display, electroluminescentdisplay, plasma display panel, high-performance addressing display,thin-film transistor display, organic light-emitting diode display,surface-conduction electron-emitter display (SED), laser television,carbon nanotubes, quantum dot display, interferometric modulatordisplay, or any other suitable equipment for displaying visual images.In some embodiments, display 412 may be HDTV-capable. In someembodiments, display 412 may be a 3D display, and the interactive mediaguidance application and any suitable content may be displayed in 3D. Avideo card or graphics card may generate the output to the display 412.The video card may offer various functions such as accelerated renderingof 3D scenes and 2D graphics, MPEG-2/MPEG-4 decoding, TV output, or theability to connect multiple monitors. The video card may be anyprocessing circuitry described above in relation to control circuitry404. The video card may be integrated with the control circuitry 404.Speakers 414 may be provided as integrated with other elements of userequipment device 400 or may be stand-alone units. The audio component ofvideos and other content displayed on display 412 may be played throughspeakers 414. In some embodiments, the audio may be distributed to areceiver (not shown), which processes and outputs the audio via speakers414.

The guidance application may be implemented using any suitablearchitecture. For example, it may be a stand-alone applicationwholly-implemented on user equipment device 400. In such an approach,instructions of the application are stored locally (e.g., in storage408), and data for use by the application is downloaded on a periodicbasis (e.g., from an out-of-band feed, from an Internet resource, orusing another suitable approach). Control circuitry 404 may retrieveinstructions of the application from storage 408 and process theinstructions to generate any of the displays discussed herein. Based onthe processed instructions, control circuitry 404 may determine whataction to perform when input is received from input interface 410. Forexample, movement of a cursor on a display up/down may be indicated bythe processed instructions when input interface 410 indicates that anup/down button was selected.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application is a client-serverbased application. Data for use by a thick or thin client implemented onuser equipment device 400 is retrieved on-demand by issuing requests toa server remote to the user equipment device 400. In one example of aclient-server based guidance application, control circuitry 404 runs aweb browser that interprets web pages provided by a remote server. Forexample, the remote server may store the instructions for theapplication in a storage device. The remote server may process thestored instructions using circuitry (e.g., control circuitry 404) andgenerate the displays discussed above and below. The client device mayreceive the displays generated by the remote server and may display thecontent of the displays locally on equipment device 400. This way, theprocessing of the instructions is performed remotely by the server whilethe resulting displays are provided locally on equipment device 400.Equipment device 400 may receive inputs from the user via inputinterface 410 and transmit those inputs to the remote server forprocessing and generating the corresponding displays. For example,equipment device 400 may transmit a communication to the remote serverindicating that an up/down button was selected via input interface 410.The remote server may process instructions in accordance with that inputand generate a display of the application corresponding to the input(e.g., a display that moves a cursor up/down). The generated display isthen transmitted to equipment device 400 for presentation to the user.

In some embodiments, the media guidance application is downloaded andinterpreted or otherwise run by an interpreter or virtual machine (runby control circuitry 404). In some embodiments, the guidance applicationmay be encoded in the ETV Binary Interchange Format (EBIF), received bycontrol circuitry 404 as part of a suitable feed, and interpreted by auser agent running on control circuitry 404. For example, the guidanceapplication may be an EBIF application. In some embodiments, theguidance application may be defined by a series of JAVA-based files thatare received and run by a local virtual machine or other suitablemiddleware executed by control circuitry 404. In some of suchembodiments (e.g., those employing MPEG-2 or other digital mediaencoding schemes), the guidance application may be, for example, encodedand transmitted in an MPEG-2 object carousel with the MPEG audio andvideo packets of a program.

User equipment device 400 of FIG. 4 can be implemented in system 500 ofFIG. 5 as user television equipment 502, user computer equipment 504,wireless user communications device 506, or any other type of userequipment suitable for accessing content, such as a non-portable gamingmachine. For simplicity, these devices may be referred to hereincollectively as user equipment or user equipment devices, and may besubstantially similar to user equipment devices described above. Userequipment devices, on which a media guidance application may beimplemented, may function as a standalone device or may be part of anetwork of devices. Various network configurations of devices may beimplemented and are discussed in more detail below.

A user equipment device utilizing at least some of the system featuresdescribed above in connection with FIG. 4 may not be classified solelyas user television equipment 502, user computer equipment 504, or awireless user communications device 506. For example, user televisionequipment 502 may, like some user computer equipment 504, beInternet-enabled allowing for access to Internet content, while usercomputer equipment 504 may, like some television equipment 502, includea tuner allowing for access to television programming. The mediaguidance application may have the same layout on various different typesof user equipment or may be tailored to the display capabilities of theuser equipment. For example, on user computer equipment 504, theguidance application may be provided as a web site accessed by a webbrowser. In another example, the guidance application may be scaled downfor wireless user communications devices 506.

In system 500, there is typically more than one of each type of userequipment device but only one of each is shown in FIG. 5 to avoidovercomplicating the drawing. In addition, each user may utilize morethan one type of user equipment device and also more than one of eachtype of user equipment device.

In some embodiments, a user equipment device (e.g., user televisionequipment 502, user computer equipment 504, wireless user communicationsdevice 506) may be referred to as a “second screen device.” For example,a second screen device may supplement content presented on a first userequipment device. The content presented on the second screen device maybe any suitable content that supplements the content presented on thefirst device. In some embodiments, the second screen device provides aninterface for adjusting settings and display preferences of the firstdevice. In some embodiments, the second screen device is configured forinteracting with other second screen devices or for interacting with asocial network. The second screen device can be located in the same roomas the first device, a different room from the first device but in thesame house or building, or in a different building from the firstdevice.

The user may also set various settings to maintain consistent mediaguidance application settings across in-home devices and remote devices.Settings include those described herein, as well as channel and programfavorites, programming preferences that the guidance applicationutilizes to make programming recommendations, display preferences, andother desirable guidance settings. For example, if a user sets a channelas a favorite on, for example, the web site www.Tivo.com on theirpersonal computer at their office, the same channel would appear as afavorite on the user's in-home devices (e.g., user television equipmentand user computer equipment) as well as the user's mobile devices, ifdesired. Therefore, changes made on one user equipment device can changethe guidance experience on another user equipment device, regardless ofwhether they are the same or a different type of user equipment device.In addition, the changes made may be based on settings input by a user,as well as user activity monitored by the guidance application.

The user equipment devices may be coupled to communications network 514.Namely, user television equipment 502, user computer equipment 504, andwireless user communications device 506 are coupled to communicationsnetwork 514 via communications paths 508, 510, and 512, respectively.Communications network 514 may be one or more networks including theInternet, a mobile phone network, mobile voice or data network (e.g., a4G or LTE network), cable network, public switched telephone network, orother types of communications network or combinations of communicationsnetworks. Paths 508, 510, and 512 may separately or together include oneor more communications paths, such as, a satellite path, a fiber-opticpath, a cable path, a path that supports Internet communications (e.g.,IPTV), free-space connections (e.g., for broadcast or other wirelesssignals), or any other suitable wired or wireless communications path orcombination of such paths. Path 512 is drawn with dotted lines toindicate that in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 5 it is awireless path and paths 508 and 510 are drawn as solid lines to indicatethey are wired paths (although these paths may be wireless paths, ifdesired). Communications with the user equipment devices may be providedby one or more of these communications paths, but are shown as a singlepath in FIG. 5 to avoid overcomplicating the drawing.

Although communications paths are not drawn between user equipmentdevices, these devices may communicate directly with each other viacommunication paths, such as those described above in connection withpaths 508, 510, and 512, as well as other short-range point-to-pointcommunication paths, such as USB cables, IEEE 1394 cables, wirelesspaths (e.g., Bluetooth, infrared, IEEE 802-11x, etc.), or othershort-range communication via wired or wireless paths. BLUETOOTH is acertification mark owned by Bluetooth SIG, INC. The user equipmentdevices may also communicate with each other directly through anindirect path via communications network 514.

System 500 includes content source 516 and media guidance data source518 coupled to communications network 514 via communication paths 520and 522, respectively. Paths 520 and 522 may include any of thecommunication paths described above in connection with paths 508, 510,and 512. Communications with the content source 516 and media guidancedata source 518 may be exchanged over one or more communications paths,but are shown as a single path in FIG. 5 to avoid overcomplicating thedrawing. In addition, there may be more than one of each of contentsource 516 and media guidance data source 518, but only one of each isshown in FIG. 5 to avoid overcomplicating the drawing. (The differenttypes of each of these sources are discussed below.) If desired, contentsource 516 and media guidance data source 518 may be integrated as onesource device. Although communications between sources 516 and 518 withuser equipment devices 502, 504, and 506 are shown as throughcommunications network 514, in some embodiments, sources 516 and 518 maycommunicate directly with user equipment devices 502, 504, and 506 viacommunication paths (not shown) such as those described above inconnection with paths 508, 510, and 512.

System 500 may also include an advertisement source 524 coupled tocommunications network 514 via a communications path 526. Path 526 mayinclude any of the communication paths described above in connectionwith paths 508, 510, and 512. Advertisement source 524 may includeadvertisement logic to determine which advertisements to transmit tospecific users and under which circumstances. For example, a cableoperator may have the right to insert advertisements during specifictime slots on specific channels. Thus, advertisement source 524 maytransmit advertisements to users during those time slots. As anotherexample, advertisement source may target advertisements based on thedemographics of users known to view a particular show (e.g., teenagersviewing a reality show). As yet another example, advertisement sourcemay provide different advertisements depending on the location of theuser equipment viewing a media asset (e.g., east coast or west coast).

In some embodiments, advertisement source 524 may be configured tomaintain user information including advertisement-suitability scoresassociated with user in order to provide targeted advertising.Additionally or alternatively, a server associated with advertisementsource 524 may be configured to store raw information that may be usedto derive advertisement-suitability scores. In some embodiments,advertisement source 524 may transmit a request to another device forthe raw information and calculate the advertisement-suitability scores.Advertisement source 524 may update advertisement-suitability scores forspecific users (e.g., first subset, second subset, or third subset ofusers) and transmit an advertisement of the target product toappropriate users.

Content source 516 may include one or more types of content distributionequipment including a television distribution facility, cable systemheadend, satellite distribution facility, programming sources (e.g.,television broadcasters, such as NBC, ABC, HBO, etc.), intermediatedistribution facilities and/or servers, Internet providers, on-demandmedia servers, and other content providers. NBC is a trademark owned bythe National Broadcasting Company, Inc., ABC is a trademark owned by theAmerican Broadcasting Company, Inc., and HBO is a trademark owned by theHome Box Office, Inc. Content source 516 may be the originator ofcontent (e.g., a television broadcaster, a Webcast provider, etc.) ormay not be the originator of content (e.g., an on-demand contentprovider, an Internet provider of content of broadcast programs fordownloading, etc.). Content source 516 may include cable sources,satellite providers, on-demand providers, Internet providers,over-the-top content providers, or other providers of content. Contentsource 516 may also include a remote media server used to storedifferent types of content (including video content selected by a user),in a location remote from any of the user equipment devices. Systems andmethods for remote storage of content, and providing remotely storedcontent to user equipment are discussed in greater detail in connectionwith Ellis et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,761,892, issued Jul. 20, 2010, whichis hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Media guidance data source 518 may provide media guidance data, such asthe media guidance data described above. Media guidance data may beprovided to the user equipment devices using any suitable approach. Insome embodiments, the guidance application may be a stand-aloneinteractive television program guide that receives program guide datavia a data feed (e.g., a continuous feed or trickle feed). Programschedule data and other guidance data may be provided to the userequipment on a television channel sideband, using an in-band digitalsignal, using an out-of-band digital signal, or by any other suitabledata transmission technique. Program schedule data and other mediaguidance data may be provided to user equipment on multiple analog ordigital television channels.

In some embodiments, guidance data from media guidance data source 518may be provided to users' equipment using a client-server approach. Forexample, a user equipment device may pull media guidance data from aserver, or a server may push media guidance data to a user equipmentdevice. In some embodiments, a guidance application client residing onthe user's equipment may initiate sessions with source 518 to obtainguidance data when needed, e.g., when the guidance data is out of dateor when the user equipment device receives a request from the user toreceive data. Media guidance may be provided to the user equipment withany suitable frequency (e.g., continuously, daily, a user-specifiedperiod of time, a system-specified period of time, in response to arequest from user equipment, etc.). Media guidance data source 518 mayprovide user equipment devices 502, 504, and 506 the media guidanceapplication itself or software updates for the media guidanceapplication.

In some embodiments, the media guidance data may include viewer data.For example, the viewer data may include current and/or historical useractivity information (e.g., what content the user typically watches,what times of day the user watches content, whether the user interactswith a social network, at what times the user interacts with a socialnetwork to post information, what types of content the user typicallywatches (e.g., pay TV or free TV), mood, brain activity information,etc.). The media guidance data may also include subscription data. Forexample, the subscription data may identify to which sources or servicesa given user subscribes and/or to which sources or services the givenuser has previously subscribed but later terminated access (e.g.,whether the user subscribes to premium channels, whether the user hasadded a premium level of services, whether the user has increasedInternet speed). In some embodiments, the viewer data and/or thesubscription data may identify patterns of a given user for a period ofmore than one year. The media guidance data may include a model (e.g., asurvivor model) used for generating a score that indicates a likelihooda given user will terminate access to a service/source. For example, themedia guidance application may process the viewer data with thesubscription data using the model to generate a value or score thatindicates a likelihood of whether the given user will terminate accessto a particular service or source. In particular, a higher score mayindicate a higher level of confidence that the user will terminateaccess to a particular service or source. Based on the score, the mediaguidance application may generate promotions that entice the user tokeep the particular service or source indicated by the score as one towhich the user will likely terminate access.

Media guidance applications may be, for example, stand-aloneapplications implemented on user equipment devices. For example, themedia guidance application may be implemented as software or a set ofexecutable instructions which may be stored in storage 408, and executedby control circuitry 404 of a user equipment device 400. In someembodiments, media guidance applications may be client-serverapplications where only a client application resides on the userequipment device, and server application resides on a remote server. Forexample, media guidance applications may be implemented partially as aclient application on control circuitry 404 of user equipment device 400and partially on a remote server as a server application (e.g., mediaguidance data source 518) running on control circuitry of the remoteserver. When executed by control circuitry of the remote server (such asmedia guidance data source 518), the media guidance application mayinstruct the control circuitry to generate the guidance applicationdisplays and transmit the generated displays to the user equipmentdevices. The server application may instruct the control circuitry ofthe media guidance data source 518 to transmit data for storage on theuser equipment. The client application may instruct control circuitry ofthe receiving user equipment to generate the guidance applicationdisplays.

Content and/or media guidance data delivered to user equipment devices502, 504, and 506 may be over-the-top (OTT) content. OTT contentdelivery allows Internet-enabled user devices, including any userequipment device described above, to receive content that is transferredover the Internet, including any content described above, in addition tocontent received over cable or satellite connections. OTT content isdelivered via an Internet connection provided by an Internet serviceprovider (ISP), but a third party distributes the content. The ISP maynot be responsible for the viewing abilities, copyrights, orredistribution of the content, and may only transfer IP packets providedby the OTT content provider. Examples of OTT content providers includeYOUTUBE, NETFLIX, and HULU, which provide audio and video via IPpackets. Youtube is a trademark owned by Google Inc., Netflix is atrademark owned by Netflix Inc., and Hulu is a trademark owned by Hulu,LLC. OTT content providers may additionally or alternatively providemedia guidance data described above. In addition to content and/or mediaguidance data, providers of OTT content can distribute media guidanceapplications (e.g., web-based applications or cloud-based applications),or the content can be displayed by media guidance applications stored onthe user equipment device.

Media guidance system 500 is intended to illustrate a number ofapproaches, or network configurations, by which user equipment devicesand sources of content and guidance data may communicate with each otherfor the purpose of accessing content and providing media guidance. Theembodiments described herein may be applied in any one or a subset ofthese approaches, or in a system employing other approaches fordelivering content and providing media guidance. The following fourapproaches provide specific illustrations of the generalized example ofFIG. 5.

In one approach, user equipment devices may communicate with each otherwithin a home network. User equipment devices can communicate with eachother directly via short-range point-to-point communication schemesdescribed above, via indirect paths through a hub or other similardevice provided on a home network, or via communications network 514.Each of the multiple individuals in a single home may operate differentuser equipment devices on the home network. As a result, it may bedesirable for various media guidance information or settings to becommunicated between the different user equipment devices. For example,it may be desirable for users to maintain consistent media guidanceapplication settings on different user equipment devices within a homenetwork, as described in greater detail in Ellis et al., U.S. PatentPublication No. 2005/0251827, filed Jul. 11, 2005. Different types ofuser equipment devices in a home network may also communicate with eachother to transmit content. For example, a user may transmit content fromuser computer equipment to a portable video player or portable musicplayer.

In a second approach, users may have multiple types of user equipment bywhich they access content and obtain media guidance. For example, someusers may have home networks that are accessed by in-home and mobiledevices. Users may control in-home devices via a media guidanceapplication implemented on a remote device. For example, users mayaccess an online media guidance application on a website via a personalcomputer at their office, or a mobile device such as a PDA orweb-enabled mobile telephone. The user may set various settings (e.g.,recordings, reminders, or other settings) on the online guidanceapplication to control the user's in-home equipment. The online guidemay control the user's equipment directly, or by communicating with amedia guidance application on the user's in-home equipment. Varioussystems and methods for user equipment devices communicating, where theuser equipment devices are in locations remote from each other, isdiscussed in, for example, Ellis et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,046,801, issuedOct. 25, 2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety.

In a third approach, users of user equipment devices inside and outsidea home can use their media guidance application to communicate directlywith content source 516 to access content. Specifically, within a home,users of user television equipment 502 and user computer equipment 504may access the media guidance application to navigate among and locatedesirable content. Users may also access the media guidance applicationoutside of the home using wireless user communications devices 506 tonavigate among and locate desirable content.

In a fourth approach, user equipment devices may operate in a cloudcomputing environment to access cloud services. In a cloud computingenvironment, various types of computing services for content sharing,storage or distribution (e.g., video sharing sites or social networkingsites) are provided by a collection of network-accessible computing andstorage resources, referred to as “the cloud.” For example, the cloudcan include a collection of server computing devices, which may belocated centrally or at distributed locations, that provide cloud-basedservices to various types of users and devices connected via a networksuch as the Internet via communications network 514. These cloudresources may include one or more content sources 516 and one or moremedia guidance data sources 518. In addition or in the alternative, theremote computing sites may include other user equipment devices, such asuser television equipment 502, user computer equipment 504, and wirelessuser communications device 506. For example, the other user equipmentdevices may provide access to a stored copy of a video or a streamedvideo. In such embodiments, user equipment devices may operate in apeer-to-peer manner without communicating with a central server.

The cloud provides access to services, such as content storage, contentsharing, or social networking services, among other examples, as well asaccess to any content described above, for user equipment devices.Services can be provided in the cloud through cloud computing serviceproviders, or through other providers of online services. For example,the cloud-based services can include a content storage service, acontent sharing site, a social networking site, or other services viawhich user-sourced content is distributed for viewing by others onconnected devices. These cloud-based services may allow a user equipmentdevice to store content to the cloud and to receive content from thecloud rather than storing content locally and accessing locally-storedcontent.

A user may use various content capture devices, such as camcorders,digital cameras with video mode, audio recorders, mobile phones, andhandheld computing devices, to record content. The user can uploadcontent to a content storage service on the cloud either directly, forexample, from user computer equipment 504 or wireless usercommunications device 506 having content capture feature. Alternatively,the user can first transfer the content to a user equipment device, suchas user computer equipment 504. The user equipment device storing thecontent uploads the content to the cloud using a data transmissionservice on communications network 514. In some embodiments, the userequipment device itself is a cloud resource, and other user equipmentdevices can access the content directly from the user equipment deviceon which the user stored the content.

Cloud resources may be accessed by a user equipment device using, forexample, a web browser, a media guidance application, a desktopapplication, a mobile application, and/or any combination of accessapplications of the same. The user equipment device may be a cloudclient that relies on cloud computing for application delivery, or theuser equipment device may have some functionality without access tocloud resources. For example, some applications running on the userequipment device may be cloud applications, i.e., applications deliveredas a service over the Internet, while other applications may be storedand run on the user equipment device. In some embodiments, a user devicemay receive content from multiple cloud resources simultaneously. Forexample, a user device can stream audio from one cloud resource whiledownloading content from a second cloud resource. Or a user device candownload content from multiple cloud resources for more efficientdownloading. In some embodiments, user equipment devices can use cloudresources for processing operations such as the processing operationsperformed by processing circuitry described in relation to FIG. 4.

As referred herein, the term “in response to” refers to initiated as aresult of. For example, a first action being performed in response to asecond action may include interstitial steps between the first actionand the second action. As referred herein, the term “directly inresponse to” refers to caused by. For example, a first action beingperformed directly in response to a second action may not includeinterstitial steps between the first action and the second action.

Detailed descriptions of FIGS. 6-12 are provided below. It should benoted that processes 600-1200, or any step thereof, could be performedon, or provided by, any of the devices shown in, or described withrespect to, FIGS. 4-5. For example, either process 600 or process 700may be executed by control circuitry 404 (FIG. 4) as instructed by mediaguidance application(s) implemented on user equipment 502, 504, and/or506 (FIG. 5). In addition, one or more steps of processes 600 and 700may be incorporated into, or combined with, one or more steps of anyother process or embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows an illustrative media guidance interface that maydynamically include or exclude a video, in accordance with variousembodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, display 600 maydisplay a media asset provided by the media guidance application. Forexample, display 600 may display image 602. Image 602 may be a part ofthe media asset provided by the media guidance application. In someembodiments, display 600 may be used to receive and/or display searchqueries received from a user as well as replies or results generated bythe media guidance application.

In some embodiments, while the media asset is delivered to display 600(or at any other time), the media guidance application may receive aquery from a user. For example, query 604 (e.g., “Call John”) may bereceived from a user. In some embodiments, query 604 may then bedisplayed in screen 600 overlaid over picture 602. In some embodiments,the media guidance application may disambiguate query 604 in respond todetermining that the term “John” may refer to more than one person. Insome embodiments, the media guidance application may use a sensor todetermine that the user (e.g., user 110) is wearing a tie, a jacket anddress shoes (e.g., items 112, 111, and 116).

In some embodiments, the media guidance application may then determinethat the set of items worn by the user matches a certain ensembletemplate of a set of ensemble templates that define various possibleoutfits. For example, a set of items worn by the user may match Table 1.In this example, the media guidance application may add a keyword of theensemble template (e.g., Table 1) to the user's query 604. For example,the media guidance application may add the keyword “work” to the user'squery to create a modified query (e.g., “Call John (work”). In someembodiments, the media guidance application may then perform a searchusing the modified query and determine that a contact “John (work)”should be called. In some embodiments, the media guidance applicationmay output the result of a search to screen 600. For example, the mediaguidance application may display result 606 with text “Calling John(work).” In some embodiments, the media guidance application may alsoactually place a call to a phone number associated with John (work).

FIG. 7 depicts an illustrative flow diagram of a process 700 for aprocess of disambiguating user input in accordance with an embodiment ofthe disclosure. Process 700 may be executed by control circuitry 404(e.g., in a manner instructed to control circuitry 404 by the mediaguidance application). Control circuitry 404 may be a part of userequipment (e.g., user television equipment 502, user computer equipment504, and/or wireless communications device 506), or of a remote serverseparated from the user equipment by way of communications network 514.

Process 700 begins at 702, where control circuitry 404 may receive asearch query from the user. For example, control circuitry 404 mayreceive user input as a text command or as a voice command via userdevice 104. For example, control circuitry 404 may receive input “Showme the recipe.”

Process 700 continues at 704 where control circuitry 404 may determinethat the search query contains an ambiguity. For example, controlcircuitry 404 may determine that word “recipe” is ambiguous because itis unclear what kind of recipe the user looking for (e.g., a cake recipeor hamburger recipe). In response to such a determination, controlcircuitry 404 may perform steps 706-716.

Process 700 continues at 706 where control circuitry 404 may identify,using at least one sensor (e.g., an IoT sensor, RFID sensor, or videosensor), a plurality of items in the physical vicinity of the user. Forexample, control circuitry 404 may identify a set of food ingredientsarranged in the vicinity of the user.

Process 700 continues at 708 where control circuitry 404 may analyze theidentified plurality of items to determine whether the plurality ofitems forms a first ensemble of items or a second ensemble of items. Inone example, the set of food ingredients arranged in the vicinity of theuser may include eggs, ham, milk and cheese. In this example, controlcircuitry 404 may determine that the plurality of items forms a first(e.g., ensemble “omelet”). In another example, the set of foodingredients arranged in the vicinity of the user may include eggs,flour, milk and baking soda. In this example, control circuitry 404 maydetermine that the plurality of items forms a second ensemble (e.g.,ensemble “pancakes”).

Process 700 continues at 710 where control circuitry 404 may proceeddifferently based on where the plurality of items forms a first ensembleof items (e.g., ensemble “omelet”) or a second ensemble of items(ensemble “pancakes”). If the plurality of items forms a first ensembleof items, process 700 may proceed to 712. If the plurality of itemsforms a second ensemble of items, process 700 may proceed to 714.

At 712, control circuitry 404 may perform a search using the searchquery and a first keyword related to the first ensemble of items. Forexample, control circuitry 404 may search a database (e.g., an Internetsearch database) using keywords “recipe” and “omelet.”

At 714, control circuitry 404 may perform a search using the searchquery and a second keyword related to the second ensemble of items. Forexample, control circuitry 404 may search a database (e.g., an Internetsearch database) using keywords “recipe” and “pancakes.”

Process 700 continues at 710 where control circuitry 404 may output theresult of the performed search (e.g., at one of steps 712 and 714). Forexample, control circuitry 404 may display an omelet recipe or pancakesrecipe retrieved via a search of the Internet database.

FIG. 8 depicts another illustrative flow diagram of a process 800 fordisambiguating user input in accordance with an embodiment of thedisclosure. Process 800 may be executed by control circuitry 404 (e.g.,in a manner instructed to control circuitry 404 by the media guidanceapplication). Control circuitry 404 may be a part of the user equipment(e.g., user television equipment 502, user computer equipment 504,and/or wireless communications device 506), or of a remote serverseparated from the user equipment by way of communications network 514.

Process 800 begins at 802, where control circuitry 404 accesses a listof ensemble templates, each ensemble template identifying a plurality ofphysical items and a descriptive keyword. In some embodiments, controlcircuitry 404 may locally store the list of ensemble templates (e.g., atstorage 408). In some embodiments, control circuitry 404 may remotelyaccess the list of ensemble templates (e.g., from media guidance datasource 518). In some embodiments, control circuitry 404 may includeensemble templates depicted by Table 1 and Table 2 above, and otherensemble templates.

Process 800 continues at 804, where control circuitry 404 may receive asearch query from the user. For example, control circuitry 404 mayreceive user input as a text command or as a voice command via userdevice 104. For example, control circuitry 404 may receive input “CallJohn.”

Process 800 continues at 806, where control circuitry 404 may determinethat the search query received from the user comprises a portion withmultiple possible meanings. For example, control circuitry 404 maydetermine that the search query “Call John” received from the usercomprises a portion with multiple possible meanings. For example, theword “John” may potentially refer to multiple people (e.g., to “John(work)” and to “John (gym)”). In response to such a determination,control circuitry 404 may perform steps 808-818.

Process 800 continues at 808, where control circuitry 404 may detect,using a sensor, a set of items in a physical vicinity of the user. Forexample, control circuitry 404 may determine that the user (e.g., user120) is wearing several items indicative of a gym outfit. For example,control circuitry 404 may use a video sensor (or any other sensor) toidentify the items tank top 121, shorts 122, and sneakers 123.

Process 800 continues at 810, where control circuitry 404 may determinewhether the set of items matches a plurality of physical itemsidentified by the first ensemble template of the list of ensembletemplates (e.g. a template defined by Table 2). For example, controlcircuitry 404 may determine that since tank top 121, shorts 122 andsneakers 123 all match at least one keyword identified by the firstensemble template, there is a match between the set of items and theplurality of physical items identified by the first ensemble template.In some embodiments, if the match is established, process 800 mayproceed to 812. In some embodiments, if the match is not established,process 800 may proceed to 816.

At 812, control circuitry 404 may add a descriptive keyword identifiedby the first ensemble template to the search query received from theuser to generate a modified search query. For example, if the firstensemble template is the ensemble template depicted by Table 2, controlcircuitry 404 may add keyword “gym” (i.e., keyword 1 of Table 2) to thesearch query received from the user to generate a modified search query“Call John gym.”

At 814, control circuitry 404 may perform a search based on the modifiedsearch query. For example, control circuitry 404 may search the user'scontact list using terms “John gym.” In some embodiments, this mayidentify a unique contact. In some embodiments, control circuitry 404may generate an output “calling John (gym)” (e.g., output 606).

At 816, control circuitry 404 may perform a search based on theunmodified search query. For example, control circuitry 404 may searchthe user's contact list using term “John.” In some embodiments, sincethe there is more than one John in the contact list, control circuitry404 may generate an output “Do you mean John (work) or John (gym)?”

Process 800 continues at 818, where control circuitry 404 may generatefor display results of the performed search. In one example, controlcircuitry 404 may display the words “Calling John (gym)” (at which pointcontrol circuitry 404 may place a call to John (gym)). In anotherexample, control circuitry 404 may generate text “Do you mean John(work) or John (gym)?” In this case, further input may be needed inorder for the call to be placed.

FIG. 9 depicts another illustrative flow diagram of a process 900 for aprocess of disambiguating user input in accordance with an embodiment ofthe disclosure. Process 900 may be executed by control circuitry 404(e.g., in a manner instructed to control circuitry 404 by the mediaguidance application). Control circuitry 404 may be a part of userequipment (e.g., user television equipment 502, user computer equipment504, and/or wireless communications device 506), or of a remote serverseparated from the user equipment by way of communications network 514.In some embodiments, process 900 occurs after step 812 of FIG. 8. Forexample, control circuitry 404 may perform steps 810-812 multiple timesto add several keywords to the search query.

Process 900 begins at 902, where control circuitry may determine thatthe search query received from the user comprises a portion withmultiple possible meanings. In some embodiments, step 902 maybe beperformed in the same manner as step 806 of FIG. 8. In response todetecting the ambiguity, control circuitry 404 may proceed to step 904.

Process 900 continues at 904, where control circuitry determines thatthe set of items matches a plurality of physical items identified by asecond ensemble template of the list of ensemble templates. For example,the second ensemble template may define a tennis outfit. For example,second ensemble template may be represented by Table 3:

TABLE 3 Attribute Value Keyword 1 Tennis Keyword 2 Outfit Item 1 RacquetItem 2 Tennis ball Item 3 Tennis hat

For example, the set of items (e.g., as identified in step 808) mayinclude: a tennis racquet and a tennis ball in the vicinity of the user(e.g., user 120). In this example, control circuitry 404 may determinethat since the tennis racquet and a tennis ball match at least onekeyword identified by the first ensemble template, there is a matchbetween the set of items and the plurality of physical items identifiedby the second ensemble template.

At 906, control circuitry 404 may add a descriptive keyword identifiedby the second ensemble template to the search query received from theuser to generate a modified search query. For example, control circuitry404 may add keyword “tennis” (i.e., keyword 1 of Table 3) to the searchquery received from the user to generate a modified search query: “CallJohn gym tennis.”

In some embodiments, steps 902-906 may be repeated any number of timesto modify the search query based on multiple items ensembles present inthe physical vicinity of the user.

FIG. 10 depicts another illustrative flow diagram of a process 1000 fora process of disambiguating user input in accordance with an embodimentof the disclosure. Process 1000 may be executed by control circuitry 404(e.g., in a manner instructed to control circuitry 404 by the mediaguidance application). Control circuitry 404 may be a part of userequipment (e.g., user television equipment 502, user computer equipment504, and/or wireless communications device 506), or of a remote serverseparated from the user equipment by way of communications network 514.In some embodiments, process 1000 occurs as part of step 808 of FIG. 8.

Process 1000 begins at 1002, where control circuitry may identify afirst item and a second item. For example, control circuitry 404 mayidentify jacket 111 and tie 112. As explained above, a first item and asecond item may be identified via IoT network, via RFID scan, or viavideo signal processing.

Process 1000 continues at 1004, where control circuitry 404 maycalculate the distance between the first item and the second item. Forexample, multiple RFID sensors can be used to triangulate locations ofthe first item and the second item. In another example, controlcircuitry 404 may determine the distance using visual signal processing.

Process 1000 continues at 1006, where control circuitry 404 maydetermine whether the distance corresponds to a vicinity threshold(e.g., 5 feet). In some embodiments, if the distance is below thethreshold, control circuitry 404 may proceed to step 1008.

Process 1000 continues at 1008, where control circuitry 404 may, inresponse to determining that the distance corresponds to the vicinitythreshold (e.g., less than a threshold), add the first item and thesecond item to the set of items (e.g., set of items determined at step808). For example, if jacket 111 and tie 112 are three feet away, bothmay be added to the set of items. In some embodiments, control circuitry404 may repeat steps 1002-1008 to identify any number of items to beadded to the set of items.

FIG. 11 depicts another illustrative flow diagram of a process 1100 fora process of determining a match between a set of items and items of anensemble template in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.Process 1100 may be executed by control circuitry 404 (e.g., in a mannerinstructed to control circuitry 404 by the media guidance application).Control circuitry 404 may be a part of user equipment (e.g., usertelevision equipment 502, user computer equipment 504, and/or wirelesscommunications device 506), or of a remote server separated from theuser equipment by way of communications network 514. In someembodiments, process 1100 occurs as part of step 810 of FIG. 8.

Process 1100 begins at 1102, where control circuitry 404 may calculatethe number of items of the set of items that match at least one item ofthe plurality of physical items identified by the first ensembletemplate. In one example, the set of items may include jacket 111, tie112, and belt 113. In this example, control circuitry 404 may determinethat each of these items matches at least one item identified by thefirst template (e.g., template defined by Table 1). In this example,control circuitry 404 may calculate the number to have the value of “3.”

Process 1100 continues at 1104, where control circuitry 404 maydetermine that the number exceeds a match threshold. For example, thematch threshold may be a value of “2.” In one example, since the valueof “3” is greater than “2,” control circuitry 404 may proceed to step1106.

Process 1100 continues at 1106, where control circuitry 404 maydetermine that the set of items matches the plurality of physical itemsof the first ensemble template. For example, control circuitry 404 maydetermine that since three items near the user match the at least twoitems identified by the first ensemble template, the match with thetemplate is established and the template is relevant to the currentenvironment of the user.

FIG. 12 depicts a flow diagram of a process 1200 for modifying thesearch query in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Process1100 may be executed by control circuitry 404 (e.g., in a mannerinstructed to control circuitry 404 by the media guidance application).Control circuitry 404 may be a part of user equipment (e.g., usertelevision equipment 502, user computer equipment 504, and/or wirelesscommunications device 506), or of a remote server separated from theuser equipment by way of communications network 514. In someembodiments, process 1200 occurs as part of step 812 of FIG. 8. In someembodiments, steps 1202-1204, 1206-1208, and 1210-1212 may be performedsequentially, simultaneously, optionally, or in any other order.

At 1202, control circuitry 404 may determine that the set of itemscomprises a first plurality of clothing items worn by the user. Forexample, control circuitry 404 may identify a work outfit, gym outfit,dancing outfit, snow-sports outfit, or any other type of an outfit.

In some embodiments, the first ensemble template may identify a secondplurality of clothing items and a dress code keyword. For example, thefirst ensemble template may identify items needed for one of a workoutfit, gym outfit, dancing outfit, snow-sports outfit, or any othertype of an outfit. At 1204, control circuitry 404 may, in response todetermining that the set of items matches the plurality of physicalitems identified by the first ensemble template of the list of ensembletemplates, add the dress code keyword to the search query received fromthe user to generate the modified search query. For example, the controlcircuitry 404 may add keywords like “work” or “gym” to a search querylike “call John” or “call a cab.”

At 1206, control circuitry 404 may determine that the set of itemscomprises a first plurality of furniture items. For example, controlcircuitry 404 may identify furniture arranged for a party, furniturearranged for watching a movie, furniture arranged for dinner, or anyother arrangement of furniture.

In some embodiments, the first ensemble template may identify a secondplurality of furniture items and a furniture arrangement keyword. Forexample, the first ensemble template may identify items needed for oneof furniture arranged for a party, furniture arranged for watching amovie, furniture arranged for dinner, or any other arrangement offurniture. At 1208, control circuitry 404 may, in response todetermining that the set of items matches the plurality of physicalitems identified by the first ensemble template of the list of ensembletemplates, add the furniture arrangement keyword to the search queryreceived from the user to generate the modified search query. Forexample, the control circuitry 404 may add keywords like “party” or“dinner” to a search query like “play music.” In this case, controlcircuitry 404 may play music based on the arrangement of furniture.

At 1210, control circuitry 404 may determine that the set of itemscomprises a first plurality of food items. For example, controlcircuitry 404 may identify food items for an omelet recipe, pancakesrecipe, cake recipe, or any other recipe.

In some embodiments, the first ensemble template may identify a secondplurality of food items and a recipe keyword. For example, the firstensemble template may identify food items for an omelet recipe, apancakes recipe, cake recipe, or any other recipe. At 1212, controlcircuitry 404 may, in response to determining that the set of itemsmatches the plurality of physical items identified by the first ensembletemplate of the list of ensemble templates, add the recipe keyword tothe search query received from the user to generate the modified searchquery. For example, the control circuitry 404 may add keywords like“omelet” or “pancake” to a search query like “show me a recipe.” In thiscase, control circuitry 404 may augment a request for a recipe based onthe ensemble of food items in front of the user.

It is contemplated that the steps or descriptions of each of FIGS. 7-12may be used with any other embodiment of this disclosure. It iscontemplated that some steps or descriptions of each of FIGS. 7-12 maybe optional and may be omitted in some embodiments. In addition, thesteps and descriptions described in relation to FIGS. 7-12 may be donein alternative orders or in parallel to further the purposes of thisdisclosure. For example, each of these steps may be performed in anyorder or in parallel or substantially simultaneously to reduce lag orincrease the speed of the system or method. Furthermore, it should benoted that any of the devices or equipment discussed in relation toFIGS. 4-5 could be used to perform one or more of the steps in FIGS.7-12.

It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that methodsinvolved in the present disclosure may be embodied in a computer programproduct that includes a computer-usable and/or readable medium. Forexample, such a computer-usable medium may consist of a read-only memorydevice, such as a CD-ROM disk or conventional ROM device, or a randomaccess memory, such as a hard drive device or a computer diskette,having a computer-readable program code stored thereon. It should alsobe understood that methods, techniques, and processes involved in thepresent disclosure may be executed using processing circuitry. Theprocessing circuitry, for instance, may be a general purpose processor,a customized integrated circuit (e.g., an ASIC), or a field-programmablegate array (FPGA) within user television equipment 502, media contentsource 516, or media guidance data source 518.

The processes discussed above in FIGS. 7-12 are intended to beillustrative and not limiting. One skilled in the art would appreciatethat the steps of the processes in FIGS. 7-12 discussed herein may beomitted, modified, combined, and/or rearranged, and any additional stepsmay be performed, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.More generally, the above disclosure is meant to be exemplary and notlimiting. Only the claims that follow are meant to set bounds as to whatthe present invention includes. Furthermore, it should be noted that thefeatures and limitations described in any one embodiment may be appliedto any other embodiment herein, and flowcharts or examples relating toone embodiment may be combined with any other embodiment in a suitablemanner, done in different orders, or done in parallel. In addition, thesystems and methods described herein may be performed in real time. Itshould also be noted, the systems and/or methods described above may beapplied to, or used in accordance with, other systems and/or methods.

While some portions of this disclosure may make reference to“convention,” any such reference is merely for the purpose of providingcontext to the invention(s) of the instant disclosure, and does not formany admission as to what constitutes the state of the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: receiving, by a device, arequest to place a call, the request comprising a name; and in responseto determining that a contact list of the device comprises a pluralityof entries that include the name: detecting, using at least one sensor,an ensemble of items within a threshold physical distance of the device;selecting, based on a characteristic of the ensemble of items, aselected entry from the plurality of entries that include the name; andplacing a call using contact information from the selected entry.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein detecting the ensemble of items comprises:detecting a plurality of items identifying that at least one ensembletemplate of a plurality of ensemble templates describes the plurality ofitems; and determining that the plurality of items forms the ensemble ofitems.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein identifying that at least oneensemble template of the plurality of ensemble templates identifies theplurality of items comprises determining that a number of the pluralityof items belonging to the ensemble is greater than a threshold matchcount.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the ensemble template of theplurality of ensemble templates comprises a plurality of descriptivekeywords.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein selecting the entry from theplurality of entries that include the name comprises: searching thecontact list for the plurality of entries that include the name; andmatching one of the characteristics of the ensemble of items with one ofthe plurality of entries that include the name.
 6. The method of claim1, wherein the sensor is at least one of: an Internet of Things sensor,a video sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a near-field communication(NFC) sensor, and a heat sensor.
 7. A system comprising: at least onesensor; an input interface configured to receive a request to place acall from a user; control circuitry configured to: receive, by a device,a request to place a call, the request comprising a name; and inresponse to determining that a contact list of the device comprises aplurality of entries that include the name: detecting, using the atleast one sensor, an ensemble of items within a threshold physicaldistance of the device; selecting, based on a characteristic of theensemble of items, a selected entry from the plurality of entries thatinclude the name; and placing a call using contact information from theselected entry.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the control circuitryis configured to detect the ensemble of items by: detecting a pluralityof items; identifying that at least one ensemble template of a pluralityof ensemble templates describes the plurality of items; and determiningthat the plurality of items forms the ensemble of items.
 9. The systemof claim 8, wherein the control circuitry is configured to identify thatat least one ensemble template of the plurality of ensemble templatesidentifies the plurality of items comprises determining that a number ofthe plurality of items belonging to the ensemble is greater than athreshold match count.
 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the ensembletemplate of the plurality of ensemble templates comprises a plurality ofdescriptive keywords.
 11. The system of claim 7, wherein the controlcircuitry is configured to select the entry from the plurality ofentries that include the name by: searching the contact list for theplurality of entries that include the name; and matching one of thecharacteristics of the ensemble of items with one of the plurality ofentries that include the name.
 12. The system of claim 7, wherein thesensor is at least one of: an Internet of Things sensor, a video sensor,an infrared (IR) sensor, a near-field communication (NFC) sensor, and aheat sensor.
 13. An apparatus comprising: means for receiving, by adevice, a request to place a call, the request comprising a name; andmeans for, in response to determining that a contact list of the devicecomprises plurality of entries that include the name: detecting, usingat least one sensor, an ensemble of items within a threshold physicaldistance of the device; selecting, based on a characteristic of theensemble of items, a selected entry from the plurality of entries thatinclude the name; and placing a call using contact information from theselected entry.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the means fordetecting the ensemble of items comprises: means for detecting aplurality of items means for identifying that at least one ensembletemplate of a plurality of ensemble templates describes the plurality ofitems; and means for determining that the plurality of items forms theensemble of items.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the means foridentifying that at least one ensemble template of the plurality ofensemble templates identifies the plurality of items comprises means fordetermining that a number of the plurality of items belonging to theensemble is greater than a threshold match count.
 16. The apparatus ofclaim 14, wherein the means for the ensemble template of the pluralityof ensemble templates comprises means for a plurality of descriptivekeywords.
 17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the means for selectingthe entry from the plurality of entries that include the name comprises:means for searching the contact list for the plurality of entries thatinclude the name; and means for matching one of the characteristics ofthe ensemble of items with one of the plurality of entries that includethe name.
 18. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the means for thesensor is at least one of: an Internet of Things sensor, a video sensor,an infrared (IR) sensor, a near-field communication (NFC) sensor, and aheat sensor.